Evaluation of probiotic bacterial strains for enhanced microbial biotransformation of polyphenol-rich potato extract

The proposed project searches to understand the effect of probiotic bacterial strains belonging to the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera on the degradation and bioavailability of phenolic compounds present in potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) after in vitro digestion. The more easily absorbed metabolites are associated with protective effects against cancer and diabetes mellitus type II. Additionally, the combination of probiotics with phenolic-rich potato extract may have beneficial effects on the human colonic bacterial composition. Lallemand Inc., the partner organization that produces the probiotics, will benefit from this study as its results will describe additional health benefits through the consumption of their products.

Faculty Supervisor:

Stan Kubow

Student:

Emiliano Melgar-Bermudez

Partner:

Lallemand Health Solutions

Discipline:

Food science

Sector:

Medical devices

University:

Program: